Christian Horner's departure from Red Bull Racing has been marked by a wave of emotion, culminating in a heartfelt farewell address to the team he led for over two decades. In a video clip released by Sky Sports, the 51-year-old Horner addressed the gathered employees at the Milton Keynes factory, expressing his shock at the news that he would no longer be involved operationally with the team.
"Yesterday I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward from after this gathering," Horner stated. "I will still remain employed by the company but operationally the baton will be handed over. And that obviously came as a shock".
Despite the suddenness of the decision, Horner used the opportunity to express his profound gratitude to every member of the team. "What I have had time to do is to reflect over the last 12 hours or so and I wanted to stand in front of all of you and just express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20 and a half years," he said.
Horner recalled his early days with Red Bull, after the company took over the Jaguar team in 2005. He described walking into two run-down buildings and beginning the journey of building what would become a dominant force in Formula 1. "Watching and being part of this team has been the biggest privilege in my life," Horner declared to the applause of the assembled employees.
In a subsequent statement on social media, Horner paid tribute not only to his team but also to Red Bull's partners, fans, and even their rivals. "After an incredible journey of 20 years together, it is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the team I have absolutely loved," he wrote. He acknowledged the vital role of the team's supporters in growing Red Bull from humble beginnings into an F1 powerhouse, which has claimed six Constructors' Championships and eight Drivers' Championships.
Horner also extended his appreciation to the competitors Red Bull has faced over the years. "Equally, thank you to our rivals, with whom there would be no racing at all," he stated. "You've pushed us, challenged us, and enabled us to achieve accolades we never dreamed possible. The competition has made every victory sweeter and every setback an opportunity to develop and grow".
Looking ahead, Horner expressed his excitement for the future of Red Bull Powertrains, the team's in-house engine division set to produce its first power unit in 2026. However, he admitted his disappointment at not being able to witness the engine's performance firsthand.
The departure of Christian Horner marks the end of an era for Red Bull Racing. As the longest-serving team principal in Formula 1, Horner oversaw a period of unprecedented success, leading the team to multiple world championships with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. His leadership was instrumental in transforming Red Bull from a midfield contender into a dominant force in the sport.
Laurent Mekies, formerly the team principal of Racing Bulls, will succeed Horner. Horner offered his support to Mekies, saying, "A new CEO will be announced shortly. I trust him and give him my full support. My instruction to him is to look after all of you".
The news of Horner's exit has reverberated throughout the Formula 1 community. Max Verstappen, Red Bull's star driver, expressed his gratitude to Horner in a message on Instagram. "From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes," Verstappen wrote. "Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!".
